Review: Muli ST Pro

1. Design (8.5/10)

Compact Cargo Bike

The design of this German compact and foldable cargo bike is truly unique… until recently. However, the Muli ST remains the shortest or smallest cargo bike at 195 cm.

A few years ago, Muli was the only one in the market with this innovative idea. This makes it an ideal cargo bike for urban use. The Muli cargo bike stands out because it’s a compact bike with a foldable cargo box, which is not larger than a regular city bike altogether.

Steel Frame, Remains Heavy

To ensure excellent riding comfort, a high-quality steel frame has been chosen. Comfort and safety are guaranteed, but as a result, this foldable cargo bike weighs 37.4 kilograms. Without the electric components, the weight is 25 kilograms.

Thanks to the strong frame, the bike has a carrying capacity of 195 kilograms (157 kg without counting the bike itself). With a little calculation, this means that about 70 kg can fit in the cargo box. This is still more than enough for numerous groceries, cargo, or even two children.

The success of this design was predicted by us two years ago. With the introduction of the new Riese & Müller Carrie, it is confirmed that this type of compact cargo bike has found its way to Belgian and Dutch cities.

Cargo Bike for the City

On a more personal note: we also just really think this compact foldable cargo bike is cool. The smaller 16-inch front wheel and the (still small) 20-inch rear wheel. It looks like a classic cargo bike, but in a mini version – that has something special.

You wonder if the designers wanted to create a compact cargo bike for the city, or a city bike that can also function as a cargo bike. The Muli meets both criteria.

This design will certainly not appeal to everyone, but we do think that Muli owners will immediately fall in love with this bike at first sight. If the Muli is something for you, you’ll know it right away.

2. Performance: Acceleration and Speed (8.5/10)

Top Speed (9/10): 25 km/h – Easily Achievable

Acceleration (8/10): The powerful Shimano EP6 quickly accelerates you to top speed

Maintaining Top Speed (9/10): Easy to maintain

Performance Uphill (8/10): With 85 Nm, more than sufficient, even with cargo, even uphill

With Muli cargo bikes, you actually have choices when it comes to performance. You can opt for the non-electric Muskel, go for the somewhat outdated Shimano EP6100 motor, which will soon no longer be available, or choose the bike we tested: the Muli Cargo Bike ST Pro with Shimano EP6 motor.

This motor truly makes a difference. It’s the new generation of Shimano’s electric motors, which are both smarter and more efficient. The EP6 boasts 85 Nm, providing more than enough power to effortlessly tackle hills, even with a full load.

Furthermore, there is no longer a derailleur; the bike features an automatic gear system (Shimano NEXUS Inter-E5 hub with Di2), which adjusts to the rider’s cadence. This system is particularly useful when starting, as the bike automatically shifts to the lightest gear, making take-off easier. However, you still have the option to manually adjust gears with a lever.

In summary, in terms of performance, this bike is on par with other, larger cargo bikes. The 25 km/h is easily achieved, and riding uphill is effortless. And with 85 Nm uphill, we mean virtually any hill. Perhaps not at 25 km/h, but easily and smoothly.

The battery paired with this Shimano EP6 cargo motor is the 630Wh battery, providing approximately 40-50 kilometers on full assistance (without cargo). Of course, you can cover many more kilometers if you use assistance sparingly.

All these enhancements represent a significant improvement over previous Muli versions. In the past, Muli may have been considered a simple, weaker cargo bike, but with the Muli Cargo Bike ST Pro upgrades, the brand has completely reversed that perception. This foldable cargo bike is of top quality, which is also evident in other components of the bike.

3. Unique Features and Technology (8.5/10)

Smart Choice for Urban (Cargo) Cyclists

In the bustling Belgian cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, Leuven, and Ghent, where streets are narrow and parking spots are scarce, the Muli Cargo Bike ST is not just any cargo bike. It’s a smart solution for city dwellers seeking the functionality of a cargo bike while not wanting to compromise on the maneuverability and compactness of a traditional bike.

When folded, the Muli Cargo Bike ST is no wider or longer than any other bike. This is unique for a cargo bike; even the new Riese & Müller Carrie cannot promise this.

Foldable Cargo (Bike)

The most striking feature of the Muli is its unique foldable cargo area. The cargo area measures 33 x 50 cm and has a capacity of 100 liters. These dimensions allow the cargo bike to be used for a variety of tasks, from weekly grocery runs to transporting two children.

As a cargo bike, it must also hold its own in terms of carrying capacity. With a total weight of 195 kg, the Muli scores well within the average. In the cargo area, you can carry 50 kg, on the luggage rack 18 kg, and you can weigh up to 87 kg yourself.

Muli states the max weight of the cargo area is 70 kg, but in our example, we also want to show that you should not exceed the total carrying capacity

The Muli Cargo Bike ST also offers the option to add a child seat for €330 (a bit expensive). This makes the bike ideal for young families in cities; once the kids are dropped off, fold it up and elegantly ride to your home/work. It can also serve as a dog cargo bike if you purchase the dog seat.

Remember, though, in terms of safety in case of a fall or collision, this cargo area does not contribute anything. The steel frame is the only thing that provides real protection.

Compact and Mobile

Where traditional cargo bikes are often bulky and cumbersome in urban environments, the Muli is different. This bike is designed with the challenges of city life in mind, where every square meter counts. This is reflected in the smart design of the cargo bike.

But while the Muli Cargo Bike ST offers many advantages, it’s not the right choice for everyone. Long distances outside the city or rough terrain… That’s not what this bike is made for. The Muli shines most in the city.

Despite its heavier weight of 37.4 kg, this cargo bike is easy to lift and carry. Especially with the folded basket, making it easy to take the cargo bike on the train or even in the elevator…

Not so unthinkable, here are some examples:

• Taking a cargo bike in the elevator
• Taking a cargo bike on the train
• Taking a cargo bike on a bike rack
• Taking a cargo bike perhaps even in the trunk of the (long) car

You may not immediately think of it, but for some people, this Muli Cargo Bike ST Pro is the answer to all their questions.

4. Riding Comfort (8/10)

Riding Comfort on Flat Roads (9/10):

Riding Comfort on Uneven Roads (7/10):

Riding Comfort on Long Distances (7.5/10):

Riding on Wet Roads -> Safety (7.5/10):

In this review of the Muli Cargo Bike ST Pro, we also want to delve deeper into riding comfort, as many questions are raised in this regard. Especially due to the small wheels and the lack of suspension.

The Muli Cargo Bike ST offers an agile, responsive, and dynamic riding experience, as expected, designed for urban use. Cable steering is often used on cargo bikes for a shorter turning radius or a more natural driving feel. With the Muli, this is not necessary due to its compact design.

The choice of wheels also plays into this. 16-inch wheels at the front and 20-inch wheels at the back, a choice that we don’t see anywhere else. However, be cautious of bumps and curbs. Without suspension on these small wheels, you feel the shocks quite distinctly. Muli understands this, which is why they provide high-quality tires and a steel frame for additional riding comfort.

On wet roads, these smaller wheels may slide more easily, but due to the low and central center of gravity of the Muli, you maintain control and can quickly correct your course.

Straight Riding Position with Seatpost Suspension for Comfort

Additionally, the Muli Cargo Bike ST is equipped with a parallelogram-suspended seatpost that reduces the impact of road irregularities. The steel frame is flexible, especially at the front, providing extra comfort. Despite its considerable weight, the Muli Cargo Bike ST feels confident, even with cargo and in tight corners.

While riding, you sit upright, and since the bike is compact, you are also close to the cargo box, near the children or the dog if you are transporting them. It is a ‘one-size-fits-all’ model, although the step-in height is not very low.

The Muli is intended for users from 1.55 meters to about 1.95 meters tall. This is made possible by the adjustable seatpost and similarly adjustable stem, which bring you into an ergonomic position. If you fall just above or below this range, a test ride (or test sit) is definitely necessary.

Safety and Security

If you plan to transport cargo with this vehicle, say more than an extra 20 kilograms on top of your body weight, then being able to brake well is crucial. This is always the case, but people often underestimate how much influence an extra 20 or 30 kilograms actually has on your braking distance. In this regard, too, Muli aims to dispel any doubts by using Shimano’s powerful 4-piston 180 mm disc brakes.

Now that they use the new EP6 Cargo motor, you also have GPS tracking that you can follow via the Muli Rider app, along with all your cycling statistics.

For lighting, you can rely on Busch + Müller lights. This sister brand of Riese & Müller is also known for its quality. With these lights, you can ride with the Muli at night, although you should make yourself sufficiently visible.

The cargo box is dark, and there is nothing to make it more visible. Reflective stickers would complement it well. Also, spokes with reflective properties signal “CYCLIST” to oncoming traffic. Additionally, opt for extra side lighting or reflective vests.

Convenient to Use

The biggest advantage of this Muli is its size, or rather how compact and narrow it can be. Of course, it’s not in the same league as other cargo bikes, but that’s precisely the whole point. You buy this cargo bike when a more traditional cargo bike is not an option, especially if space is limited, like in the city.

But it also needs to be convenient to use. The cargo box does its job, it holds weight and can be folded up. This makes parking and maneuvering easier. You can navigate through narrow spaces, and theoretically, you can also keep the cargo bike in the hallway of your apartment.

Even outside, in bike sheds, you don’t have to search for a spot for cargo bikes. Any bike rack, as long as you can fold up the cargo box, you always have IMMEDIATE space. In the future, with more cargo bikes, this advantage will further play out.

However, the kickstand is a bit lacking. We would change it right away. It’s sturdy enough for an empty cargo bike, but when fully loaded, this standard kickstand is too weak to last long.

Price Comparison (7/10)

With a price tag of €6340, the Muli Motor ST falls into the higher price segment. This is somewhat expected. All those quality components drive up the price but offer a lot in return.

The main competitor in this range of compact cargo bikes (as there aren’t many yet) is the Riese & Muller Carrie, which will be sold for €5700. The Muli is slightly shorter, about 14 cm, and offers the advantage of a fully foldable cargo box. On the other hand, the Carrie focuses more on safety (cargo box) and comfort (suspension).

There are also cheaper options available. The ST Pro is the most expensive and best Muli cargo bike. Additionally, you have the Motor ST with e6100 motor (60 nm) priced at €5230 and the Motor PX with Pendix eDrive300 priced at €4460.

The Muli ST Pro offers extra performance, a better battery, and some smart features to compete with the SUVs in the cargo bike market.

You might look at the Muli and think; a compact, minimalist cargo bike without an expensive cargo box = cheap cargo bike. Unfortunately, that’s not what Muli stands for. They offer a unique design with the same high quality. However, they do provide alternatives if you don’t need as much power.

If you don’t have steep hills, long routes, and don’t mind pedaling along, then you can opt for the less powerful models. The difference between the ST Pro and the PX is almost €2000. Muli’s message here is; buy us for the design, choose a model tailored to your usage.

If you want to pedal everything yourself, then you can buy the non-electric cargo bike, the Muli Muskel, for €2890.

Final Conclusion of the Muli ST Pro Review

Muli was not an unfamiliar cargo bike for us. We already knew what to expect, as we rode one two years ago.

We thoroughly examined this compact cargo bike:

• Conducted extensive research with short test rides (1-5 km)
• Subjected it to road testing
  • 5-50 kilometers test ride
  • 50-100 kilometers day test
  • +100 kilometers week test

What we can immediately establish is that the innovations are incredibly positive. Previously, we doubted whether Muli could compete with the top segment, but now, with all these new components, that’s beyond question.

Of course, there are some downsides, like the lack of suspension and the possibility that the cargo box may not offer enough safety for certain uses. However, we believe that people considering buying the Muli are already aware of this as soon as they see the bike. This bike fits your style; this cargo bike fits your lifestyle.

You buy it because you notice that this design offers benefits that you don’t see anywhere else. And because you finally have the opportunity to have a cargo bike in an urban environment with limited space… without actually owning a cargo bike, you know.

The advantages of this bike are most pronounced in the city, in places where there is actually no room for a cargo bike.

For many other people, this foldable cargo bike will not be appealing. It doesn’t match what they expect from a cargo bike. It may not be safe enough, or the small wheels are not their thing.

This is truly a niche segment that is only just beginning to emerge. But as we said at the beginning, there is definitely a market for this kind of compact cargo bike. Muli knows this too, and with the various price options, they aim to convince more people.